The Incoming Component Commander of Special Forces’ Command (SFC) elements in Somalia, Lt Col. Paul Namawa, has taken over Control and Command of troops and the Area of Responsibility from Lt Col. Moses Mpora on Tuesday, December 5, 2017 at a ceremony held at Sector 1 headquarters in Mogadishu, Somalia.

The Hand/Take over ceremony was presided over by Col. Willy Ndinda, Head of Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces’ (UPDFs’) Country Own Equipment (COE) in Somalia, represented the Uganda Contingent Commander, Brig. Kayanja Muhanga.

“I have no doubt the Incoming Commander will double his effort given the challenge of the recent draw down of AU forces which has come into effect. I encourage you to maintain the tempo of operation just like your predecessor and his team has been operating. ” Col. Ndinda said.

He expressed confidence in both officers saying, they are hard working and always aimed higher. He thanked the outgoing Commander, Lt Col. Mpora, for his efforts and contributions towards a more stable and peaceful Somalia. Col. Ndinda welcomed Lt Col. Paul Namawa and wished him well in his new assignment.

In the last twelve months of their operation, the outgoing component accomplished a number of tasked including but not limited to; overseeing the security of State House, Base Camp, and provision of VVIP Protection to the President, Prime Minister and other dignitaries. They were a Quick Reaction Force (QRF) for our troops, and as well to the Somali National Army (SNA).

They successfully conducted Cordon and Search Operations on several suspected arms caches especially on those once controlled by War lords.

Notable among the achievements was the peaceful conduct of the Presidential and Parliamentary elections under the strict watch of the component; the most peaceful election since the collapse of Siad Barre government in 1990’s. The component also ensured guaranteed security of the UN Secretary General, Mr. Antonio Guiteres when he visited Somalia in 2017.

SFC elements support and compliment various components within the mission; securing Main Supply Routes (MSR), recovery of numerous weapons from various arms caches across Somalia among other roles.

Lt Col. Moses Mpora returns home with Uganda Battle Group XX following a successful stint with AMISOM.